EXETER Racecourse will host its first-ever Christmas Cup on Thursday, December 18, adding a prestigious new race to one of the South West’s busiest pre-Christmas events.

The trophy will be contested as part of the Racing Blogger Christmas Cup Handicap Chase, a meeting that already draws hundreds of racegoers eager for a festive day out.

The jumps season so far has seen some standout performances at Exeter. Lulamba, one of the most exciting young chasers in training, is a leading contender for the Arkle at Cheltenham in March, following a Grade One success at Sandown recently.

After the racing, the festive mood continues with live music from The Mechanics, keeping crowds entertained into the early evening.

The combination of top-class racing, social atmosphere, and seasonal extras like free buses and music makes the Christmas meeting a highlight of Exeter’s winter calendar, whatever the weather.